Alicea

Meaning & origin

Alicea is a rare given name in the United States, first recorded in 1954. It has never appeared in the national top 1000 rankings, making it an uncommon choice. The name reached its peak usage in 1998, but has been declining in popularity since 1997, according to data. While its exact meaning is debated, it is widely considered a variant of Alicia, a name with Germanic roots meaning 'noble'. Alicea's top states of usage are not available due to its rarity, but it likely follows patterns similar to other Alicia variants. The name's modern elaboration with the -ea suffix gives it a distinctive sound, appealing to parents seeking a unique twist on a classic.

Alicea is a modern English elaboration of Alicia, itself a Latinate form of Alice. Alice derives from the Old French name Alis, a short form of Adelais, which ultimately comes from the Germanic Adalheidis, meaning 'noble' or 'of noble kind'. The name Alicea appears to have emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as a variant of Alicia with an added -ea suffix, possibly influenced by names like Althea or Andrea.